In an exclusive interview with Russia Today (RT) on April 26, 2025, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni reaffirmed Uganda’s deepening partnership with Russia, emphasizing historical ties, defense cooperation, and economic opportunities.
The sit-down highlighted Uganda’s strategic alignment with Moscow amid global tensions and its commitment to a non-aligned foreign policy.
Museveni praised Russia’s longstanding support for Africa, dating back to the Soviet Union’s backing of anti-colonial movements.
“They stood with us in our liberation struggles,” he said, noting that cooperation persisted despite a brief hiatus during Russia’s post-Gorbachev instability.
“We are back on track now,” he added, signaling a renewed focus on bilateral ties.
A key pillar of this relationship is defense collaboration. In 2023, Russia provided Uganda with a $100 million military aid package, enhancing its security capabilities.
Museveni called for further Russian investment in critical sectors like oil exploration, refining, and infrastructure, aligning with Russia’s growing economic presence in Africa.
He also highlighted health diplomacy, citing Uganda’s hosting of the Russia-Africa Health Summit in Kampala as a milestone in bilateral cooperation.
On the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Museveni reiterated Uganda’s neutral stance, having abstained from UN resolutions condemning Russia.
He criticized Western powers for exacerbating the crisis through interference, stating, “Why should we take sides in other people’s wars?”
Museveni argued that neutrality is the key to resolving global disputes, reinforcing Uganda’s non-aligned approach in a polarized world.
The interview comes as Uganda navigates strained relations with the West, particularly over human rights concerns and the 2023 Anti-Homosexuality Act, which prompted U.S. sanctions and World Bank loan freezes.
Museveni’s outreach to Russia reflects a broader strategy to diversify partnerships and bolster Uganda’s autonomy in global affairs.
As Uganda and Russia deepen their ties, Museveni’s remarks underscore a pragmatic vision for cooperation rooted in mutual benefit.